The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase II, 2011) 1.6 16V THP (156 Hp) represents a significant iteration of Peugeot’s compact station wagon, designed primarily for the European market. Introduced as a practical and stylish alternative to traditional hatchbacks, the 308 SW offered increased cargo capacity and versatility without sacrificing the driving experience. This particular version, equipped with the 1.6-liter THP engine, aimed to balance performance with fuel efficiency, appealing to families and individuals seeking a functional yet engaging vehicle. The “SW” designation, standing for “Station Wagon,” highlights its body style, a popular choice in Europe for its practicality.
Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase II): A Detailed Overview
The 308 SW Phase II, produced from 2011 to 2013, benefited from a mid-life refresh that included subtle styling updates and improvements to interior refinement. It continued Peugeot’s commitment to offering a compelling package in the competitive C-segment, facing rivals like the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Variant, and Renault Mégane Estate. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the 308 SW provides insight into European automotive preferences and engineering philosophies of the early 2010s. The Phase II updates focused on enhancing the vehicle’s appeal and addressing feedback from initial models.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 308 SW I (Phase II) 1.6 16V THP lies a 1.6-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated EP6CDT, utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a respectable 156 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1400 rpm. This configuration provides a good balance between responsiveness and fuel economy. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 97.6 hp/l, indicating a relatively efficient design. Coupled with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive, the 308 SW achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 211 km/h (131 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 9.5 kg/hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.2 kg/Nm contribute to its lively driving characteristics.
Design & Features
The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase II) is a five-door, five-seat station wagon (estate) characterized by its sleek and modern design. The body measures 4500 mm (177.17 inches) in length, 1815 mm (71.46 inches) in width, and 1564 mm (61.57 inches) in height. A key feature of the SW model is its generous cargo space, offering 520 liters (18.36 cubic feet) with the rear seats up and expanding to 2149 liters (75.89 cubic feet) when folded down. This versatility makes it well-suited for families or individuals requiring ample storage. Standard safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. Electric power steering contributes to ease of maneuverability. The vehicle rides on either 17-inch or 18-inch wheel rims, typically fitted with 225/45 R17 V or 225/40 R18 V tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | 308 |
| Generation | 308 SW I (Phase II, 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V THP (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 211 km/h (131.11 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EP6CDT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1481 kg (3265.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 649 kg (1430.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2149 l (75.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708 mm (106.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.08 m (36.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The Peugeot 308 SW I (Phase II) 1.6 16V THP (156 Hp) remains a testament to Peugeot’s ability to create practical and enjoyable vehicles for the European market. Its combination of efficient engine technology, spacious interior, and stylish design made it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile family car.
